Auranofin is a gold-thiol complex with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. It potently inhibits thioredoxin reductase (IC50 = 0.2 μM), preventing reduction of thioredoxin and altering oxidative signaling relevant to DNA synthesis, transcription, apoptosis, and disease. Auranofin blocks LPS-mediated expression of inflammatory mediators in RAW 264.7 macrophages at 10-20 μM and blocks NF-κB signaling in a stimulus- and cell type-dependent manner. Through these actions, this compound has applications in rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases with an inflammatory component, including cancer. Auranofin also has potential value against certain bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
